The Blog

Hire Like a 4-Star General

A critical part of hiring people who can assist you in taking your company to the next level is being able to articulate what you need.

In his book, It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership, Colin Powell lists the traits he “treasures” (his word) in people who work with him. It’s a list of characteristics necessary in every field, military, civil service, non-profit or corporate. Powell looks for people who:

Solve problems before he knows they exist

Have strengths where he has weaknesses

Are not afraid to take charge

Find ways to make his job easier

Don’t surprise him with bad news

Don’t act on instructions they don’t fully understand

Show up on time – all the time

Speak precisely

Do the analysis and don’t make snap decisions

Finding qualified people in today’s competitive environment is challenging but knowing what you’re looking for will help you ask the right questions.